House Overview

Lichen Manor

A beautiful and artistically renovated elegant home in the countryside of Mendocino just 6 minutes from our village downtown. Charming English-Inspired Artist’s estate on 20 acres in Coastal Mendocino.

Welcome to your storybook escape on California’s rugged north coast. Nestled in the heart of picturesque Mendocino, this one-of-a-kind home is a lovingly restored English-style cottage brimming with history, artistry, and tranquil charm.

Originally commissioned by world-renowned seascape artist E. John Robinson and his wife June, the home was inspired by their travels through the English countryside in the late 1970s and early ’80s. Designed to echo the timeless elegance of a traditional half-timbered cottage, this residence is both a personal legacy and a living piece of art.

E. John Robinson (1932–2008) was celebrated for his breathtaking seascapes—over 4,000 in his lifetime—and was featured on four Reader’s Digest covers. His art instruction books, and best-selling videos brought his passion to students around the world. This home was his retreat, a space of reflection, creativity, and natural beauty.

Today, the home has been thoughtfully reimagined by its current owner, also an artist, who was inspired by the soul of the space and the legacy left behind. While preserving the original heart of the home, they introduced a warm, country-modern style. Yellow pine resewn flooring, imported from a Georgia mill, sets the tone. The kitchen is a masterpiece in itself, featuring custom walnut cabinetry and hand-crafted details throughout the home with beautiful hand-hewn hardwood beams, classic marble tile bathrooms, and rustic hot water Cowboy tubs for soaking under the stars overlooking the large koi pond.

Surrounded by lush pygmy and redwood forest, the property is a peaceful sanctuary where nature, comfort, and artistry converge. Whether you’re sipping coffee in the garden, curled up on the couch with a book, or enjoying the textures and fine craftsmanship throughout the home, every thoughtful detail is designed to help you relax, recharge, and feel truly at home.

Come experience Mendocino through the eyes of an artist. This is more than a vacation home—it’s a celebration of creativity, comfort, and coastal California charm.

There are also two other rentals on this property that share some access on the property. The three homes can be rented out as a whole for special events or individually – The Lichen Manor (main house), The Fox Den (studio above garage), and The Half Timbered Cottage (large cottage). Please inquire prior to any event bookings for details, and/or arrangements. We do not cater or handle wedding arrangements. Please obtain a skilled planner for your special occasion.

Due to the uniqueness of this property location, pond and wildlife, anyone under the age of 18 years old, and/or anyone requiring supervision, must have a signed “Waiver of Responsibility” by parents/guardians prior to occupying or assuming the vacation rental property.

The Lichen Manor is Base Rated for four (4) guests. Any guests over the Base Rate will be charged an Extra Guest Fee of $35 per person, per night, plus tax.

Pet Friendly with Pet Fee and a 2-Pet Maximum allowed (Dogs only). No exceptions. $35.00 per pet, per night, plus tax.

A Refundable Damage Deposit of $500 and a one-time Non-Refundable Cleaning Fee of $350 applies.

We recommend Travel Insurance to protect your vacation investment.

BOOK WITH SWEETWATER VACATION HOME RENTALS

Lichen Manor Interior

Lichen Manor

OUTDOOR PATIO

Charming Country Views

Amenities the Lichen Manor offers:

Located in beautiful coastal Mendocino on 20 acres and 6 minutes from downtown. An authentic English-style cottage designed by E. John Robinson with custom walnut kitchen and artisan woodwork with beautiful classic marble tile bathrooms surrounded by the majestic pygmy and redwood forest.

  • 1 King-sized bed in the master bedroom with a walk-in closet (downstairs), and a large master bathroom w/clawfoot bathtub

  • 1 Queen-sized sleeper sofa in bedroom/Den (upstairs)
  • 1 Queen-sized bed in private bedroom (upstairs)
  • 2 Bathrooms (upstairs) w/showers
  • Fully equipped kitchen with table and counter dining (8 max.)
  • 1 Gas stove fireplace in the kitchen
  • Large living room for gatherings
  • Formal Dining room (8 max.)
  • 1 Sunroom off the back of home
  • Outdoor patio seating area with firepit
  • 2 Rustic Cowboy soaking tubs outside with hot and cold water
  • Access to washer and dryer
  • Central Heating
  • Open Wi-fi
  • English style garden pathways

The open barn is a wonderfully renovated shared common area for guests that rent any of the three (3) accommodations. Everyone is expected to be respectful of each other and not to leave items behind that will attract wildlife. Quiet hours are 10 pm – 8 am. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in advance.

Activities Nearby:

  • Biking and hiking trails nearby
  • 6 minutes to restaurants and shopping
  • Kayaking and canoeing
  • Golf Course
  • Pt Cabrillo Light House

Due to this property location, pond, trails, and other risks of being in the countryside, we require that a “Waiver of Responsibility” be signed by the parents or guardians of any minors or persons requiring supervision before occupying the property. No exceptions. Access to property is limited to reservation guests.

“Three generations of family stayed at Lichen Manor for four nights, and everyone’s only regret was that we hadn’t booked a longer stay. The main house is incredible; our favorite spot was the enclosed porch, which was illuminated by string lights at night. There was plenty of gathering room for six people to watch movies and make meals, plus private spaces to hide out with a book or take a nap. My 81-year-old father said he can’t remember the last time he slept so well! Though privately located, it was only 5 minutes to town, making coffee runs and dinner outings an easy drive. We appreciated being able to bring our pups, and there was plenty of room to throw a ball in the yard. There’s no question we’d stay here again. A note for visitors: Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens offers wonderful walking trails, accessible for all ages and dog-friendly.”

Christine – July 2025

“Beautiful place and well decorated. Very spacious for 4 adults and 3 kids.”

Kenneth – July 2025